Difference between revisions of "Niger" - New World Encyclopedia

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[[Category: Nations and places]]
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{{Copyedited}}{{Paid}}{{Approved}}{{Images OK}}{{submitted}}
  
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{{Infobox Country
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{{Infobox Country or territory
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|native_name              = Republic of Niger<br/>''République du Niger'' <small>{{fr icon}}</small><br/>''Jamhuriyar Nijar'' <small>(Hausa)</small>
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|native_name              = ''République du Niger''
 
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|conventional_long_name  = Republic of Niger
 
 
|common_name              = Niger
 
|common_name              = Niger
 
|image_flag              = Flag of Niger.svg
 
|image_flag              = Flag of Niger.svg
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|image_coat              = Niger coa.gif
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|image_coat              = Coat of Arms of Niger.svg
 
|image_map                = LocationNiger.png
 
|image_map                = LocationNiger.png
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|national_motto          = "Fraternité, Travail, Progrès"&nbsp;&nbsp;<small>([[French language|French]])<br>"Fraternity, Work, Progress"</small>
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|map_caption              =
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|national_anthem          = ''La Nigerienne''
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|national_motto          = "Fraternité, Travail, Progrès"{{nbsp|2}}{{fr icon}}<br/>"Fraternity, Work, Progress"
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|official_languages      = French]]
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|national_anthem          = ''[[La Nigérienne]]''
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|capital                  = Niamey
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|official_languages      = [[French language|French]]
 +
|languages_type = [[National language]]s
 +
|languages =  [[Hausa language|Hausa]], [[Fulfulde]], [[Gourmantché|Gulmancema]], [[Kanuri language|Kanuri]], [[Zarma language|Zarma]], [[Tuareg languages|Tamasheq]]
 +
|demonym                  = Nigerien ({{IPA-en|naɪdʒɪrɪˈɛn|pron}} or {{IPA-en|niːˈʒɛəriən|}}<ref>[http://www.merriam-webster.com/audio.php?file=ggnig01v&word=Nigerien&text=\%3Cspan%20class%3D%22unicode%22%3E%CB%8C%3C%2Fspan%3En%C4%AB-%3Cspan%20class%3D%22unicode%22%3E%CB%8C%3C%2Fspan%3Ejir-%C4%93-%3Cspan%20class%3D%22unicode%22%3E%CB%88%3C%2Fspan%3Een%2C%20n%C4%93-%3Cspan%20class%3D%22unicode%22%3E%CB%88%3C%2Fspan%3Ezher-%C4%93-%C9%99n\ Merriam-Webster Dictionary] Retrieved November 19, 2011.</ref><ref>[http://oxforddictionaries.com/definition/Niger Oxford Dictionaries] Retrieved November 19, 2011.</ref>)
 +
|capital                  = [[Niamey]]
 
|latd=13 |latm=32 |latNS=N |longd=2 |longm=05 |longEW=E
 
|latd=13 |latm=32 |latNS=N |longd=2 |longm=05 |longEW=E
 
|largest_city            = Niamey
 
|largest_city            = Niamey
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|government_type          = [[Parliamentary democracy]]
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|government_type          = [[Semi-presidential system|Semi-presidential]] republic
 
|leader_title1            = [[List of Presidents of Niger|President]]
 
|leader_title1            = [[List of Presidents of Niger|President]]
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|leader_title2            = Tandja Mamadou
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|leader_name1            = [[Mahamadou Issoufou]]
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|leader_name2            = Hama Amadou
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|leader_title2            = [[Prime Minister of Niger|Prime Minister]]
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|leader_name2            = [[Brigi Rafini]]
 
|area_rank                = 22nd
 
|area_rank                = 22nd
 
|area_magnitude          = 1 E12
 
|area_magnitude          = 1 E12
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|area                    = 1,267,000
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|area_km2                = 1,267,000
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|areami²                  = 489,189 <!--Do not remove per [[WP:MOSNUM]]—>
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|area_sq_mi              = 489,678
 
|percent_water            = 0.02
 
|percent_water            = 0.02
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|population_estimate      = 13,957,000
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|population_estimate      = 15,306,252
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|population_estimate_rank = 64th
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<ref name=cia>{{cite web |author=Central Intelligence Agency |authorlink= |publisher=The World Factbook|title=Niger |url=|year=2009}}</ref>
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|population_estimate_year = July 2005
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|population_estimate_rank = 63rd
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|population_census        =  
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|population_estimate_year = July 2009
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|population_census_year  =  
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|population_census        = 10,790,352
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|population_density      = 11
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|population_census_year  = 2001
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|population_densitymi²    = 28 <!--Do not remove per [[WP:MOSNUM]]—>
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|population_density_km2  = 12.1
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|population_density_rank  = 206th
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|population_density_sq_mi = 31.2
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|GDP_PPP                  = $10.951 billion
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|population_density_rank  =
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|GDP_PPP_rank            = 132nd
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|GDP_PPP                  = $11.051&nbsp;billion<ref name=imf2>{{cite web|url=|title=Niger|publisher=International Monetary Fund}}</ref>
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|GDP_PPP_year            = 2005
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|GDP_PPP_rank            =
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|GDP_PPP_per_capita      = $872
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|GDP_PPP_year            = 2010
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|GDP_PPP_per_capita_rank  = 171st
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|GDP_PPP_per_capita      = $755<ref name=imf2/>
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|sovereignty_type        = Independence
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|GDP_PPP_per_capita_rank  =
 +
|GDP_nominal              = $5.577&nbsp;billion<ref name=imf2/>
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|GDP_nominal_rank        =
 +
|GDP_nominal_year        = 2010
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|GDP_nominal_per_capita  = $381<ref name=imf2/>
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|GDP_nominal_per_capita_rank =
 +
|sovereignty_type        = [[History of Niger|Independence]]
 
|sovereignty_note        = from France
 
|sovereignty_note        = from France
 
|established_event1      = Declared
 
|established_event1      = Declared
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|established_date1        = August 3 1960
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|established_date1        = 3 August 1960
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|HDI                      = 0.281
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|HDI_year                = 2010
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|HDI_rank                = 177th
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|HDI                      = {{increase}} 0.261
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|HDI_year                = 2003
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|HDI_rank                = 170th
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|HDI_category            = <font color="#e0584e">low</font>
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|HDI_category            = <span style="color:#e0584e;">low</span>
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|currency                = CFA franc
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|Gini                    = 50.5
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|Gini_year                = 1995
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|Gini_category            = <span style="color:red;">high</span>
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|FSI                      = 91.2 {{increase}} 4.2
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|FSI_year                = 2007
 +
|FSI_rank                = 32nd
 +
|FSI_category            = Alert
 +
|currency                = [[West African CFA franc]]
 
|currency_code            = XOF
 
|currency_code            = XOF
 
|country_code            = NER
 
|country_code            = NER
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|time_zone                = West Africa Time
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|time_zone                = [[West Africa Time|WAT]]
 
|utc_offset              = +1
 
|utc_offset              = +1
 
|time_zone_DST            = ''not observed''
 
|time_zone_DST            = ''not observed''
 
|utc_offset_DST          = +1
 
|utc_offset_DST          = +1
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|cctld                    = .ne
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|drives_on                = right<ref>[http://www.brianlucas.ca/roadside/ Which side of the road do they drive on?] Brian Lucas. August 2005. Retrieved 28 January 2009.</ref>
 +
|cctld                    = [[.ne]]
 
|calling_code            = 227
 
|calling_code            = 227
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|footnotes                =
 
 
}}
 
}}
  
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'''Niger''', officially the '''Republic of Niger''', is a [[landlocked]] [[Sub-Saharan Africa|sub-Saharan]] country in [[Western Africa]], named after the [[Niger River]]. It borders [[Nigeria]] and [[Benin]] to the south, [[Burkina Faso]] and [[Mali]] to the west, [[Algeria]] and [[Libya]] to the north and [[Chad]] to the east. The capital city is [[Niamey]]. Its proper English pronunciation (in [[International Phonetic Alphabet|IPA]]) is {{IPA|/niːˈʒɛə(ɹ)/}}, although {{IPA|/ˈnaɪdʒə(ɹ)/}} is also acceptable.  Its adjective form is [[:wikt:Nigerien|''Nigeri'''e'''n'']] {{IPA|/niːˈʒɛɹiən/}}, which should not be confused with [[:wikt:Nigerian|''Nigeri'''a'''n'']] {{IPA|/naɪˈdʒiɹiən/}} for [[Nigeria]] and derives from the French nigérien, -ne.  There are different opinions about the adjective form however. [[Merriam-Webster]] lists  Nigerois (which has, despite its sound, no equivalent form in French) only as  the noun form. However, there are instances of Nigerois having been used adjectively. [[CNN]] and other news sources often circumvent using the adjective altogether, using the noun instead, e.g. 'the Niger parliament', 'Niger leader slain' or 'Niger's capital', 'Niger's people'. The citizens of Niger use the adjective 'nigérien'.
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'''Niger,''' officially the '''Republic of Niger,''' is a landlocked [[Sub-Saharan Africa|sub-Saharan]] country in western [[Africa]], named after the [[Niger River]]. Though rich in [[mineral]]s, the country is two-thirds [[desert]] and prone to [[drought]]s. Inadequate [[nutrition]] and [[disease]] result in high infant and child mortality rates. The extreme [[poverty]] also allows [[slavery]] to persist, despite being prohibited in the 1999 constitution.  
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{{toc}}
 
==History==
 
==History==
  
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Niger was an important economic crossroad,and the empires of Songhai, Mali, Gao, Kanem, and Bornu, as well as a number of Hausa states, claimed control over portions of the area.
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Niger was an important economic crossroad, and the empires of [[Songhai Empire|Songhai]], Mali, Gao, [[Kanem-Bornu Kingdom|Kanem-Bornu]], as well as a number of Hausa states, claimed control over portions of the area.
  
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During recent centuries, the nomadic Tuareg formed large confederations, pushed southward, and, siding with various Hausa states, clashed with the Fulani Empire of Sokoto, which had gained control of much of the Hausa territory in the late eighteenth century.
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During recent centuries, the [[nomad]]ic [[Tuareg]] formed large confederations, pushed southward, and, siding with various Hausa states, clashed with the [[Fulani Empire]] of Sokoto, which had gained control of much of the Hausa territory in the late eighteenth century.
  
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In the nineteenth century, contact with the West began when the first European explorers&mdash;notably Mungo Park]] (British) and Heinrich Barth (German)&mdash;explored the area, searching for the source of the [[Niger River]]. Although [[France|French]] efforts at pacification began before 1900, dissident ethnic groups, especially the desert Tuareg, were not subdued until 1922, when Niger became a French colony.
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In the nineteenth century, contact with the West began when the first [[Europe]]an explorers explored the area, searching for the source of the [[Niger River]]. Although [[France|French]] efforts at pacification began before 1900, dissident [[ethnic group]]s, especially the desert Tuareg, were not subdued until 1922, when Niger became a French colony.
  
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Niger's colonial history and development parallel that of other French West African territories. France administered its West African colonies through a governor general in Dakar, [[Senegal]], and governors in the individual territories, including Niger. In addition to conferring French citizenship on the inhabitants of the territories, the 1946 French constitution provided for decentralization of power and limited participation in political life for local advisory assemblies.
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Gradually, France granted limited local participation in political institutions, then a large measure of self-government. In 1958, Niger became an autonomous state within the French Community, and it reached full independence on August 3, 1960.
  
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A further revision in the organization of overseas territories occurred with the passage of the Overseas Reform Act (''Loi Cadre'') of July 23, 1956, followed by reorganizational measures enacted by the French Parliament early in 1957. In addition to removing voting inequalities, these laws provided for creation of governmental organs, assuring individual territories a large measure of self-government. After the establishment of the Fifth French Republic on December 4, 1958, Niger became an autonomous state within the French Community. Following full independence on August 3, 1960, however, membership was allowed to lapse.
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For its first 14 years as an independent state, Niger was run by a single-party civilian regime under the presidency of Hamani Diori. In 1974, a combination of devastating [[drought]] and accusations of rampant [[corruption]] resulted in a military [[coup d’état|coup]]. Col. Seyni Kountché and a small military group ruled the country until Kountché's death in 1987. He was succeeded by Col. Ali Saibou, who released political prisoners, liberalized some of Niger's laws and policies, and promulgated a new constitution. He gave in to demands by unions and students to institute a multi-party [[democracy|democratic]] system in 1990, and new political parties and civic associations sprang up. A transition government was installed in 1991.  
  
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For its first fourteen years as an independent state, Niger was run by a single-party civilian regime under the presidency of Hamani Diori. In 1974, a combination of devastating [[drought]] and accusations of rampant corruption resulted in a military coup that overthrew the Diori regime. Col. Seyni Kountché and a small military group ruled the country until Kountché's death in 1987. He was succeeded by his Chief of Staff, Col. Ali Saibou, who released political prisoners, liberalized some of Niger's laws and policies, and promulgated a new constitution. However, President Saibou's efforts to control political reforms failed in the face of union and student demands to institute a multi-party democratic system. The Saibou regime acquiesced to these demands by the end of 1990. New political parties and civic associations sprang up, and a national conference was convened in July 1991 to prepare the way for the adoption of a new constitution and the holding of free and fair elections. The debate was often contentious and accusatory, but under the leadership of Prof. André Salifou, the conference developed consensus on the modalities of a transition government. A transition government was installed in November 1991 to manage the affairs of state until the institutions of the Third Republic were put into place in April 1993. While the economy deteriorated over the course of the transition, certain accomplishments stand out, including the successful conduct of a constitutional referendum; the adoption of key legislation such as the electoral and rural codes; and the holding of several free, fair, and nonviolent nationwide elections. Freedom of the press flourished with the appearance of several new independent newspapers.
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Rivalries within a ruling coalition elected in 1993 led to governmental paralysis, which provided Col. Ibrahim Baré Maïnassara a rationale to overthrow the government in 1996. Baré organized a presidential election in 1996 and was declared the winner. When his efforts to justify his coup and subsequent questionable elections failed to convince donors to restore economic assistance, a desperate Baré sought [[Libya]]n funds. His regime repeatedly violated basic civil liberties.
  
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Rivalries within a ruling coalition elected in 1993 led to governmental paralysis, which provided Col. Ibrahim Baré Maïnassara a rationale to overthrow the Third Republic in January 1996. While leading a military authority that ran the government (Conseil de Salut National) during a six-month transition period, Baré enlisted specialists to draft a new constitution for a Fourth Republic announced in May 1996. Baré organized a presidential election in July 1996. While voting was still going on, he replaced the electoral commission. The new commission declared him the winner after the polls closed. His party won 90 percent of parliament seats in a flawed legislative election in November 1996. When his efforts to justify his coup and subsequent questionable elections failed to convince donors to restore multilateral and bilateral economic assistance, a desperate Baré ignored an international embargo against [[Libya]] and sought Libyan funds to aid Niger's economy. In repeated violations of basic civil liberties by the regime, opposition leaders were imprisoned; journalists often arrested, beaten, and deported by an unofficial militia composed of police and military; and independent media offices were looted and burned with impunity.
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In 1999, Baré was killed in a coup led by Maj. Daouda Malam Wanké, who established the transitional National Reconciliation Council to oversee the drafting of a constitution. In votes that international observers found to be generally free and fair, the Nigerien electorate approved the new constitution in July 1999. Legislative and presidential elections were held in October and November 1999. Heading a coalition of the National Movement for a Developing Society (MNSD) and the Democratic and Social Convention (CDS), Mamadou Tandja won the presidency.
  
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In the culmination of an initiative started under the 1991 national conference, however, the government signed peace accords in April 1995 with all Tuareg and Toubou groups that had been in rebellion since 1990. The Tuareg claimed they lacked attention and resources from the central government. The government agreed to absorb some former rebels into the military and, with [[France|French]] assistance, help others return to a productive civilian life.
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In July 2004, Niger held nationwide municipal elections as part of its decentralization process. The ruling MNSD won more positions than any other political party, but opposition parties made significant gains.
  
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In 1999, Baré was killed in a coup led by Maj. Daouda Malam Wanké, who established a transitional National Reconciliation Council to oversee the drafting of a constitution for a Fifth Republic with a French style semi-presidential system. In votes that international observers found to be generally free and fair, the Nigerien electorate approved the new constitution in July 1999 and held legislative and presidential elections in October and November 1999. Heading a coalition of the National Movement for a Developing Society (MNSD) and the Democratic and Social Convention (CDS), Mamadou Tandja won the presidency.
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In November and December 2004, Niger held presidential and legislative elections. Mamadou Tandja was elected to his second five-year presidential term with 65 percent of the vote in an election that international observers called generally free and fair. This was the first presidential election with a democratically elected incumbent. In the legislative elections, the coalition that backed Tandja won 88 of the 113 seats in the National Assembly.
  
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In July 2004, Niger held municipal elections nationwide as part of its decentralization process. Some 3,700 people were elected to new local governments in 265 newly established communes. The ruling MNSD party won more positions than any other political party; however, opposition parties made significant gains.
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Listed by the [[United Nations]] as one of the poorest nations, it qualified for special [[United States]] aid because the government had demonstrated a commitment to reform in 2006.  
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In November and December 2004, Niger held presidential and legislative elections. Tandja Mamadou was elected to his second five-year presidential term with 65 percent of the vote in an election that international observers called generally free and fair. This was the first presidential election with a democratically elected incumbent and a test to Niger's young democracy.
 
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In the 2004 legislative elections, the National Movement of the Development Society (MNSD), the Democratic and Social Convention (CDS), the Social Democratic Rally (RSD), the Rally for Democracy and Progress (Niger)|Rally for Democracy and Progress(RDP), the Nigerien Alliance for Democracy and Progress (ANDP), and the Party for Socialism and Democracy in Niger (PSDN) coalition, which backed Tandja, won 88 of the 113 seats in the National Assembly.
 
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The 2005 Niger food crisis struck the country in the wake of drought and [[locust]] attacks in the previous year.
 
  
 
==Politics==
 
==Politics==
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[[Image:Mamadou Tandja 2005.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Mamadou Tandja, current President of the National Assembly of Niger.]]
 
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Niger's new constitution was approved in July 1999. It restored the semi-presidential system of government of the December 1992 constitution (Third Republic) in which the president of the republic, elected by universal suffrage for a five-year term, and a prime minister named by the president share executive power. As a reflection of Niger's increasing population, the unicameral National Assembly was expanded in 2004 to 113 deputies elected for a five-year term under a majority system of representation. Political parties must attain at least 5 percent of the vote in order to gain a seat in the legislature.
 
  
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Niger's independent judicial system is composed of four higher courts--the Court of Appeals, the Supreme Court, the High Court of Justice, and the Constitutional Court.
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Niger's 1999 constitution restored a semi-presidential system of [[government]] in which the president, elected by universal suffrage for a five-year term, and a prime minister named by the president share executive power. As a reflection of Niger's increasing population, the unicameral National Assembly was expanded in 2004 to 113 deputies elected for a five-year term under a majority system of representation. Political parties must attain at least 5 percent of the vote to gain a seat in the legislature. The constitution also provides for the popular election of municipal and local officials.
  
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The constitution also provides for the popular election of municipal and local officials, and the first-ever successful municipal elections took place July 24, 2004. The National Assembly passed in June 2002 a series of decentralization bills. As a first step, administrative powers will be distributed among 265 communes (local councils); in later stages, regions and departments will be established as decentralized entities. A new electoral code was adopted to reflect the decentralization context. The country is currently divided into 8 regions, which are subdivided into 36 districts (departments). The chief administrator (Governor) in each department is appointed by the government and functions primarily as the local agent of the central authorities.
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Niger's independent judicial system is composed of four higher courts—the Court of Appeals, the Supreme Court, the High Court of Justice, and the Constitutional Court.
  
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The current legislature elected in December 2004 contains seven political parties. President Mamadou Tandja was re-elected in December 2004 and reappointed Hama Amadou as Prime Minister. Mahamane Ousmane, the head of the CDS, was re-elected President of the National Assembly (parliament) by his peers. The new second term government of the Fifth Republic took office on  December 30, 2002. In August 2002, serious unrest within the military occurred in Niamey, Diffa, and Nguigmi, but the government was able to restore order within several days.
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The country is currently divided into eight regions, which are subdivided into 36 districts (departments) and further subdivided into 129 communes. The chief administrator (governor) in each department is appointed and functions as the agent of the central authorities.
  
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==Administrative divisions==
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==Geography==
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[[Image:Niger Safari.jpg|thumb|200px|The fertile south of Niger near the river delta.]]
 
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Niger is divided into seven departments and one capital district. The departments are subdivided into thirty-six arrondissements and further subdivided into 129 communes. The departments and capital district are:
 
  
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==Geography==
 
 
[[Image:niger_sm03.png|left|thumb|Map of Niger]]
 
[[Image:niger_sm03.png|left|thumb|Map of Niger]]
 +
Niger is a landlocked nation in [[West Africa]] located along the border between the [[Sahara]] and [[Sub-Saharan Africa|sub-Saharan]] regions. It borders [[Nigeria]] and [[Benin]] to the south, [[Burkina Faso]] and [[Mali]] to the west, [[Algeria]] and [[Libya]] to the north, and [[Chad]] to the east. Niger is slightly less than twice the size of the [[U.S.]] state of [[Texas]], and the world's 22nd largest country (after Chad).
  
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Niger is a landlocked nation in [[West Africa]] located along the border between the [[Sahara]] and [[Sub-Saharan Africa|Sub-Saharan]] regions. Its area is 1,267,000&nbsp;square kilometerss<!--format per WP:MOSNUM —> (489,000&nbsp;[[square mile|sq&nbsp;mi]]) of which 300&nbsp;square kilometers (115&nbsp;sq&nbsp;mi) is water. This makes Niger slightly less than twice the size of the U.S. state of Texas, and the world's twenty-second largest country (after [[Chad]]). Niger is comparable in size to [[Angola]].
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Niger's subtropical [[climate]] is mainly very hot and dry, with much [[desert]] area. In the extreme south, the climate is tropical on the edges of the [[Niger River]] basin. The terrain is predominantly desert plains and sand dunes, with flat to rolling [[savannah]] in the south and hills in the north.
  
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Niger borders seven countries on all sides and has a total of 5,697&nbsp;kilometres (3,540&nbsp;mi) of borders. The longest border is [[Chad]] to the east. This is followed by [[Nigeria]] to the south, [[Algeria]] to the north-northwest, and [[Mali]]. Niger also has small borders in its far southwest frontier with [[Burkina Faso]] and [[Benin]] and to the north-northeast ([[Libya]].
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==Economy==
  
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Niger's [[subtropical]] climate is mainly very hot and dry, with much [[desert]] area. In the extreme south there is a [[tropical]] climate on the edges of the [[Niger River]] basin. The terrain is predominantly desert plains and sand dunes, with flat to rolling savannah in the south and hills in the north.
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[[Image:Niamey night.jpg|thumb|right|300px|Niamey, Niger's capital and economic hub.]]
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Niger is one of the poorest countries in the world, ranking last on the [[United Nations Development Programme]]'s [[Human Development Index]]. Its economy centers on subsistence [[crop]]s, [[livestock]], and some of the world's largest [[uranium]] deposits. [[Drought]] cycles, [[desertification]], a 2.9 percent population growth rate, and a drop in world demand for uranium have undercut the economy.  
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The lowest point is the [[Niger River]], with an elevation of 200&nbsp;meters (722&nbsp;ft]]). The highest point is Monts Bagzane at 2,022&nbsp;meters (6,634&nbsp;ft).
 
  
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==Economy==
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Niger shares a common currency, the CFA franc, and a common [[central bank]], the Central Bank of West African States (BCEAO), with other members of the West African Monetary Union.
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[[Image:Niamey night.jpg|thumb|right|300px|Niamey, Niger's capital and economic hub.]]
 
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{{main|Economy of Niger}}
 
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Niger is one of the poorest countries in the world, ranking last on the [[United Nations Development Programme]]'s [[Human Development Index]]. It is a landlocked, sub-Saharan nation, whose economy centers on subsistence crops, livestock, and some of the world's largest uranium deposits. Drought cycles, desertification, a 2.9% population growth rate, and the drop in world demand for uranium have undercut the economy.  
 
  
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Niger shares a common currency, the CFA franc, and a common central bank, the Central Bank of West African States (BCEAO), with seven other members of the West African Monetary Union.
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The [[government]] embarked on an ambitious program to privatize 12 state-owned companies and is taking actions to reduce [[corruption]]. As the result of a participatory process encompassing civil society, Niger has devised a Poverty Reduction Strategy Plan that focuses on improving health, primary [[education]], rural [[infrastructure]], [[agriculture|agricultural]] production, [[environmental protection]], and judicial reform.
  
−
In December 2000, Niger qualified for enhanced debt relief under the International Monetary Fund program for Highly Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) and concluded an agreement with the Fund for Poverty Reduction and Growth Facility (PRGF). Debt relief provided under the enhanced HIPC initiative significantly reduces Niger's annual debt service obligations, freeing funds for expenditures on basic health care, primary education, HIV/AIDS prevention, rural infrastructure, and other programs geared at poverty reduction. In December 2005, it was announced that Niger had received 100% multilateral debt relief from the IMF, which translates into the forgiveness of approximately $86 million USD in debts to the IMF, excluding the remaining assistance under HIPC. Nearly half of the government's budget is derived from foreign donor resources. Future growth may be sustained by exploitation of oil, gold, coal, and other mineral resources. Uranium prices have recovered somewhat in the last few years. A drought and locust infestation in 2005 led to food shortages for as many as 2.5 million Nigeriens.  
+
In 2000, Niger qualified for enhanced debt relief, which significantly reduces Niger's annual debt service obligations, freeing funds for expenditures on basic [[health care]], primary education, [[HIV]]/[[AIDS]] prevention, rural infrastructure, and other programs geared at [[poverty]] reduction. Nearly half the government's budget is derived from foreign donor resources. In 2006, it qualified for the U.S. aid program under the Millennium Challenge Corporation, which will support efforts to fight corruption and increase girls' access to primary education. Ties with [[China]] have also grown. Future growth may be sustained by exploitation of [[petroleum|oil]], [[gold]], [[coal]], and other [[mineral]] resources. Uranium prices have recovered somewhat in the last few years.
  
 
===Slavery===
 
===Slavery===
−
 
+
[[Slavery]] has existed since pre-colonial times. The [[France|French]] tried to eliminate the slave markets, but the system persisted, even after being banned in the 1999 constitution. Primarily the slaves herd [[cattle]] or do [[agriculture|agricultural]] or domestic work. They are not permitted to vote, and their children are born into slavery. An estimated 43,000 people were slaves in 2003, when the government added stronger sentences to the penal code, hoping to end the practice.
−
The head of the government's National Commission for Human Rights and Fundamental Liberation claims that slavery does not exist, saying "Even if they have no salary, they refuse to leave the master because they are at ease with the master;" but foreign journalists report that, according to claims by opposition lawmakers, "about 10% of the members of parliament keep slaves or are from slave-owning families." [http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/world/la-fg-slavery3sep03,1,994890.story][http://www.antislavery.org/homepage/antislavery/award/nigerbackground2004.htm]
 
  
 
===Agriculture===
 
===Agriculture===
−
Niger's agricultural and livestock sectors are the mainstay of all but 18% of the population. Fourteen percent of Niger's [[Gross Domestic Product|GDP]] is generated by livestock production—[[camels]], [[domestic_goat|goats]], [[domestic sheep|sheep]], and [[cattle]]—said to support 29% of the population. The 15% of Niger's land that is arable is found mainly along its southern borders with Nigeria, Benin and Burkina Faso. Rainfall varies and when insufficient, Niger has difficulty feeding its population and must rely on grain purchases and food aid to meet food requirements. Although the rains in 2000 were not good, the three following years brought relatively plentiful and well-distributed rainfall, resulting in good harvests. Millet, sorghum, and cassava are Niger's principal rain-fed subsistence crops. Cowpeas and onions are grown for commercial export, as are limited quantities of garlic, peppers, [[gum arabic]], and sesame seeds.
+
[[Image:Niger Safari.jpg|thumb|200px|left|The fertile south of Niger near the river delta.]]
 +
Niger's [[agriculture|agricultural]] and [[livestock]] sectors are the mainstay of 82 percent of the population. Fourteen percent of Niger's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is generated by livestock production—[[camel]]s, [[goat]]s, [[sheep]], and [[cattle]]—said to support 29 percent of the population. The 15 percent of Niger's land that is arable is found mainly along its southern borders with [[Nigeria]], [[Benin]], and [[Burkina Faso]]. [[Rain]]fall varies and, when insufficient, Niger has difficulty feeding its population and must rely on [[grain]] purchases and food aid to meet food requirements.
  
 
===Exports===
 
===Exports===
−
Of Niger's exports, foreign exchange earnings from livestock, although difficult to quantify, are second only to those from uranium. Actual exports far exceed official statistics, which often fail to detect large herds of animals informally crossing into Nigeria. Some hides and skins are exported, and some are transformed into handicrafts.
+
Of Niger's exports, foreign exchange earnings from [[livestock]] are second only to those from [[uranium]]. Niger's two uranium mines are owned by a [[France|French]]-led consortium and operated by French interests. When the uranium-led boom ended in the early 1980s, the economy stagnated, and new investment since then has been limited.  
−
 
 
−
The persistent uranium price slump has brought lower revenues for Niger's uranium sector, although uranium still provides 72% of national export proceeds. The nation enjoyed substantial export earnings and rapid economic growth during the 1960s and 1970s after the opening of two large uranium mines near the northern town of Arlit. When the uranium-led boom ended in the early 1980s, however, the economy stagnated, and new investment since then has been limited. Niger's two uranium mines—SOMAIR's open pit mine and COMINAK's underground mine—are owned by a French-led consortium and operated by French interests.
 
−
 
 
−
Exploitable deposits of [[gold]] are known to exist in Niger in the region between the Niger River and the border with [[Burkina Faso]]. On [[October 5]], [[2004]] President Tandja announced the official opening of the [[Samira Hill Gold Mine]] in the region of Tera and the first Nigerien gold [[ingot]] was presented to him. This marked a historical moment for Niger as the Samira Hill Gold Mine represents the first commercial gold production in the country. Samira Hill is owned by a company called SML (Societe des Mines du Liptako) which is a joint venture between a Moroccan company, [[Societe Semafo]], and a Canadian company, [[Etruscan Resources]]. Both companies own 80% (40% - 40%) of SML and the Government of Niger 20%. The first year’s production is predicted to be 135,000 [[Troy weight|troy ounces]] (4,200&nbsp;kg; 9,260&nbsp;lb [[avoirdupois]]) of gold at a cash value of USD 177 per ounce ($5.70/g). The mine reserves for the Samira Hill mine total 10,073,626 tons at an average grade of 2.21 grams per ton from which 618,000 troy ounces (19,200&nbsp;kg; 42,400&nbsp;Lb) will be recovered over a 6 year mine life. SML believes to have a number of significant gold deposits within what is now recognized as the gold belt known as the "Samira Horizon".
 
−
 
 
−
Substantial deposits of [[phosphates]], [[coal]], [[iron]], [[limestone]], and [[gypsum]] also have been found in Niger. Niger has oil potential. In 1992, the Djado permit was awarded to Hunt Oil, and in 2003 the Tenere permit was awarded to the China National Petroleum Company. An [[ExxonMobil]]-[[Petronas]] joint venture now holds the sole rights to the Agadem block, north of [[Lake Chad]], and oil exploration is ongoing. The parastatal SONICHAR (Societe Nigerienne de Charbon) in Tchirozerine (north of Agadez) extracts coal from an open pit and fuels an electricity generating plant that supplies energy to the uranium mines. There are additional coal deposits to the south and west that are of a higher quality and may be exploitable.
 
−
 
 
−
The economic competitiveness created by the January 1994 devaluation of the [[CFA franc|Communaute Financiere Africaine (CFA) franc]] contributed to an annual average economic growth of 3.5% throughout the mid-1990s. But the economy stagnated due to the sharp reduction in foreign aid in 1999 (which gradually resumed in 2000) and poor rains in 2000. Reflecting the importance of the agricultural sector, the return of good rains was the primary factor underlying economic growth of 5.1% in 2000, 3.1% in 2001, 6.0% in 2002, and 3.0% in 2003.
 
−
 
 
−
In recent years, the Government of Niger drafted revisions to the investment code (1997 and 2000), petroleum code (1992), and mining code (1993), all with attractive terms for investors. The present government actively seeks foreign private investment and considers it key to restoring economic growth and development. With the assistance of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), it has undertaken a concerted effort to revitalize the private sector.
 
−
 
 
−
Niger shares a common currency, the CFA franc, and a common central bank, the [[Central Bank of West African States]] (BCEAO), with seven other members of the West African Monetary Union. The Treasury of the Government of France supplements the BCEAO's international reserves in order to maintain a fixed rate of 656 CFA to the euro.
 
−
 
 
−
===Economic reform===
 
−
In January 2000, Niger's newly elected government inherited serious financial and economic problems, including a virtually empty treasury, past-due salaries (11 months of arrears) and scholarship payments, increased debt, reduced revenue performance, and lower public investment. In [[December]] [[2000]], Niger qualified for enhanced debt relief under the [[International Monetary Fund]] (IMF) program for [[Highly Indebted Poor Countries]] (HIPC) and concluded an agreement with the Fund on a [[Poverty Reduction and Growth Facility]] (PRGF). In January 2001, Niger reached its decision point and subsequently reached its completion point in 2004. Total relief from all of Niger's creditors is worth about $890 million, corresponding to about $520 million in net present value (NPV) terms, which is equivalent to 53.5% of Niger’s total debt outstanding as of 2000. The debt relief provided under the enhanced HIPC initiative significantly reduces Niger's annual debt service obligations, freeing about $40 million per year over the coming years for expenditures on basic [[health care]], primary education, [[HIV/AIDS]] prevention, rural infrastructure, and other programs geared at poverty reduction. The overall impact on Niger's budget is substantial. Debt service as a percentage of government revenue will be slashed from nearly 44% in 1999 to 10.9% in 2003 and average 4.3% during [[2010]]-[[2019|19]]. The debt relief cuts debt service as a percentage of export revenue from more than 23% to 8.4% in 2003, and decreases it to about 5% in later years.
 
−
 
 
−
In addition to strengthening the budgetary process and public finances, the Government of Niger has embarked on an ambitious program to privatize 12 state-owned companies. To date, seven have been fully privatized, including the water and telephone utilities, with the remainder to be privatized in 2005. A newly installed multisectoral regulatory agency will help ensure free and fair competition among the newly privatized companies and their private sector competitors. In its effort to consolidate macroeconomic stability under the PRGF, the government is also taking actions to reduce corruption, and as the result of a participatory process encompassing civil society, has devised a Poverty Reduction Strategy Plan that focuses on improving health, primary education, rural infrastructure, agricultural production, environmental protection, and judicial reform.
 
  
−
===Foreign aid===
+
Exploitable deposits of [[gold]] are known to exist in the region between the [[Niger River]] and the border with [[Burkina Faso]]. Commercial gold production began in 2004. Substantial deposits of [[phosphate]]s, [[coal]], [[iron]], [[limestone]], and [[gypsum]] also have been found. [[Petroleum|Oil]] exploration is ongoing.
  
−
The importance of external support for Niger's development is demonstrated by the fact that about 45% of the government's FY 2002 budget, including 80% of its capital budget, derived from donor resources. The most important donors in Niger are [[France]], the [[European Union]], the [[World Bank]], the [[IMF]], and [[UN]] agencies—[[UNDP]], [[UNICEF]], [[FAO]], [[WFP]], and [[UNFPA]]. Other donors include the [[United States]], [[Belgium]], [[Germany]], [[Switzerland]], [[Japan]], [[China]], [[Italy]], [[Libya]], [[Egypt]], [[Morocco]], [[Iran]], [[Denmark]], [[Canada]], and [[Saudi Arabia]]. While the [[U.S. Agency for International Development]] (USAID) does not have an office in Niger, the United States is a major donor, contributing on average $8 million each year to Niger’s development increasing to $12 million in FY 2004. The United States also is a major partner in policy coordination in food security, education, water management and HIV/AIDS sectors.
+
In recent years, the [[government]] drafted revisions to the investment, petroleum, and [[mining]] codes, offering attractive terms for investors. The present government actively seeks foreign private investment, considering it key to restoring economic growth and development.
−
 
 
−
80% of people in Niger are employed.{{fact}}
 
  
 
==Foreign relations==
 
==Foreign relations==
−
Niger pursues a moderate foreign policy and maintains friendly relations with the West and the [[Islam|Islamic]] world as well as nonaligned countries. It belongs to the [[United Nations]] and its main specialized agencies and in 1980-81 served on the [[UN Security Council]]. Niger maintains a special relationship with France and enjoys close relations with its [[West Africa]]n neighbors. It is a charter member of the [[African Union]] and the [[West African Monetary Union]] and also belongs to the [[Niger River and Lake Chad Basin Commissions]], the [[Economic Community of West African States]], the [[Nonaligned Movement]], and the [[Organization of the Islamic Conference]].  The westernmost regions of Niger are joined with contiguous regions [[Mali]] and [[Burkina Faso]] under the [[Liptako-Gourma Authority]].
 
  
−
The border dispute with Benin, inherited from colonial times and concerning  inter alia [[Lete Island]] in the [[River Niger]] was finally solved by the [[ICJ]] in 2005 to Niger's advantage.
+
Niger pursues a moderate [[foreign policy]] and maintains friendly relations with the West and the [[Islam|Islamic]] world as well as nonaligned countries. It belongs to the [[United Nations]] and its main specialized agencies. Niger maintains a special relationship with [[France]] and enjoys close relations with its [[West Africa]]n neighbors.  
  
−
==Defense==
+
The border dispute with [[Benin]], inherited from colonial times, was finally solved in 2005 to Niger's advantage.
−
The Niger Armed Forces total 10,000 personnel with approximately 3,700 gendarmes, 300 air force, and 6,000 army personnel. The air force has four operational transport aircraft. The armed forces include general staff and battalion task force organizations consisting of two paratroop units, four light armored units, and nine motorized infantry units located in Tahoua, Agadez, Dirkou, Zinder, Nguigmi, N'Gourti, and Madewela. Since January 2003, Niger has deployed a company of troops to Cote d’Ivoire as part of the ECOWAS stabilization force. In 1991, Niger sent four hundred military personnel to join the American-led allied forces against Iraq during the Gulf War.
 
  
−
Niger's defense budget is modest, accounting for about 1.6% of government expenditures. France provides the largest share of military assistance to Niger. [[Morocco]], [[Algeria]], [[China]], and Libya have also provided military assistance. Approximately 15 French military advisers are in Niger. Many Nigerien military personnel receive training in France, and the Nigerien Armed Forces are equipped mainly with material either given by or purchased in France. In the past, U.S. assistance focused on training pilots and aviation support personnel, professional military education for staff officers, and initial specialty training for junior officers. A small foreign military assistance program was initiated in 1983. A U.S. Defense Attaché office opened in June 1985 and assumed Security Assistance Office responsibilities in 1987. The office closed in 1996 following a [[coup d'état]]. A U.S. Defense Attaché office reopened in July 2000. The United States provided transportation and logistical assistance to Nigerien troops deployed to Cote d’Ivoire in 2003. Additionally, the U.S. provided initial equipment training on vehicles and communications gear to a select contingent of Nigerien soldiers as part of the Department of State [[Pan-Sahel Initiative]].
+
==Demographics==
  
−
==Demographics==
 
 
[[Image:Niger-bevoelkerungspyramide.png|thumb|300px|Population age of Niger.]]
 
[[Image:Niger-bevoelkerungspyramide.png|thumb|300px|Population age of Niger.]]
−
{{main|Demographics of Niger}}
+
The largest [[ethnic group]]s in Niger are the [[Hausa]], who also constitute the major ethnic group in northern [[Nigeria]], and the [[Djerma-Songhai]], who also are found in parts of [[Mali]]. Both groups, along with the [[Gourmantche]], are sedentary farmers who live in the arable, southern tier of the country. The remainder of Nigeriens are [[nomad]]ic or semi-nomadic [[livestock]]-raising peoples. With rapidly growing populations and the consequent competition for meager [[natural resource]]s, lifestyles of agriculturalists and livestock herders have come increasingly into conflict. Life expectancy is 46 years.
−
The largest ethnic groups in Niger are the [[Hausa people|Hausa]], who also constitute the major ethnic group in northern [[Nigeria]], and the [[Djerma-Songhai]], who also are found in parts of [[Mali]]. Both groups, along with the [[Gourmantche]], are sedentary farmers who live in the arable, southern tier of the country. The remainder of Nigeriens are [[nomadic]] or semi-nomadic livestock-raising peoples—[[Fula people|Fulani]], [[Tuareg]], [[Kanuri]], Arabs, and [[Toubou]]. With rapidly growing populations and the consequent competition for meager natural resources, lifestyles of agriculturalists and livestock herders have come increasingly into conflict in Niger in recent years.
+
 
 +
Niger's high infant mortality rate is comparable to levels recorded in neighboring countries. The child mortality rate (deaths among children between the ages of one and four) is exceptionally high due to generally poor health conditions and inadequate [[nutrition]] for most of the country's children.  
  
−
Niger's high infant mortality rate is comparable to levels recorded in neighboring countries. However, the child mortality rate (deaths among children between the ages of 1 and 4) is exceptionally high (248 per 1,000) due to generally poor health conditions and inadequate nutrition for most of the country's children. According to the organization [[Save the Children]], Niger has the world's highest infant mortality rate [http://www.cnn.com/2006/HEALTH/parenting/05/08/mothers.index/index.html]. Nonetheless, Niger has the highest fertility rate in the world (7.2 births per woman), means that nearly half (49%) of the Nigerien population is under age 15. Between 1996 and 2003, primary school attendance was around 30% [http://www.unicef.org/infobycountry/niger_statistics.html], including 36% of males and only 25% of females. Additional education occurs through [[madrassa]]s.
+
Niger has the highest fertility rate in the world, which means that nearly half (49 percent) of the population is under age fifteen. Between 1996 and 2003, primary school attendance was around 30 percent,<ref>UNICEF, At a Glance: Niger Statistics.</ref> including 36 percent of males and only 25 percent of females. Additional education occurs through madrassas. [[French language|French]] is the official language. The overall [[literacy]] rate is 15 percent.
  
−
==Culture==
+
[[Muslim]]s make up 95 percent of the population. The remainder is traditional and [[Christian]]. [[Image:Niamey Mosque.jpg|thumb|right|250px|A mosque in Niamey.]]
−
{{sectstub}}
 
−
[[Image:Niamey Mosque.jpg|thumb|right|250px|A mosque in Niamey.]]
 
−
{{main|Culture of Niger}}
 
−
*[[Music of Niger]]
 
−
*[[List of African writers (by country)#Niger|List of writers from Niger]]
 
  
 
==Media==
 
==Media==
−
Niger started to develop diverse media in the late 1990s. Niamey boasts scores of newspapers and magazines, many of which are fiercely critical of the government.
 
  
−
Radio is the most important medium, as television sets are beyond the buying power of many of the rural poor and illiteracy prevents the print media from becoming a mass medium.
+
Niger started to develop diverse media in the late 1990s. Niamey boasts scores of [[newspaper]]s and [[magazine]]s, many of which are fiercely critical of the [[government]]. [[Radio]] is the most important medium, as [[television]] sets are beyond the buying power of many of the rural poor and [[illiteracy]] prevents the print media from becoming a [[mass media|mass medium]]. In addition to the state broadcaster, there are four privately owned radio networks, which total more than a hundred stations and are estimated to cover about 70 percent of the population.
  
−
As well as the national and regional radio services of the state broadcaster ORTN, there are four privately owned radio networks which total more than 100 stations.
+
Despite relative freedom at the national level, Nigerien journalists say they are often pressured by local authorities. The state network depends financially on the government.
  
−
Three of them &ndash; the Anfani Group, Sarounia and Tenere &ndash; are urban based commercial format FM networks in the major towns. There is also a network of over 80 community radio stations spread across all seven regions of the country, governed by the Comité de Pilotage de Radios de Proximité (CPRP), a civil society organisation.
+
==Notes==
 +
<references/>
  
−
The independent sector radio networks are collectively estimated by CPRP officials to cover some 7.5 million people, or about 70% of the population (2005).
+
==References==
−
 
 
−
As well as Nigerien radio stations, the BBC's Hausa service is listened to on FM repeaters across wide parts of the country, particularly in the south, close to the border with Nigeria. Radio France Internationale also rebroadcasts in French through some of the commercial stations, via satellite.
 
−
 
 
−
Tenere also runs a national independent television station of the same name.
 
−
 
 
−
Despite relative freedom at the national level, Nigerien journalists say they are often pressured by local authorities. The state ORTN network depends financially on the government, partly through an addition to electricity bills and partly through direct subsidy.
 
−
 
 
−
The sector is governed by the Conseil Superieur de Communications, established as an independent body in the late 1990s, headed by Maryam Keita, a former TV presenter at ORTN.
 
  
−
==Miscellaneous topics==
+
* Anti-Slavery International. [http://www.antislavery.org/homepage/antislavery/award/nigerbackground2004.htm Slavery in Niger.] Retrieved June 19, 2007.
−
{{columns
+
* Central Intelligence Agency. [https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/ng.html Niger.] ''The World Factbook.'' Retrieved June 19, 2007.
−
|width=220px
+
* Cutter, Charles H. ''Africa 2006.'' Harpers Ferry, WV: Stryker-Post Publications, 2006. ISBN 1887985727
−
|col1 =
+
* Decalo, Samuel. ''Historical Dictionary of Niger,'' 3rd ed. Scarecrow Press, 1997. ISBN 0810831368
−
* [[Association des Scouts du Niger]]
+
* Gailey, Harry A., Jr. ''History of Africa: From Earliest Times to 1800.'' Malabar, FL: Krieger Publishing Company, 1999. ISBN 1575241188
−
* [[2005-06 Niger food crisis]]
+
* UNICEF, [http://www.unicef.org/infobycountry/niger_statistics.html At a Glance: Niger.] Retrieved June 19, 2007.
−
* [[Communications in Niger]]
+
* U.S. Department of State. [http://www.state.gov/r/pa/ei/bgn/5474.htm Background Note: Niger.] Retrieved June 19, 2007.
−
* [[Foreign relations of Niger]]
 
−
* [[List of Niger-related topics]]
 
−
|col2 =
 
−
* [[List of Nigeriens]]
 
−
* [[Military of Niger]]
 
−
* [[Plame affair]]
 
−
* [[Transportation in Niger]]
 
−
* [[Yellowcake forgery]]
 
−
}}
 
−
 
 
−
==References==
 
−
*Samuel Decalo, ''Historical Dictionary of Niger'', 3rd ed. (Scarecrow Press, 1997, ISBN 0-8108-3136-8) - a comprehensive collection of Niger topics
 
−
*[[CIA World Factbook]] ([https://www.cia.gov/cia/publications/factbook/geos/ng.htm entry on Niger])
 
−
*[[US State Department]] [http://www.state.gov/r/pa/ei/bgn/5474.htm] (''Note: This article contains material from the State Department website.'')
 
−
*[http://www.unicef.org/infobycountry/niger_statistics.html Unicef Niger statistics]
 
−
*[http://www.nsu.newschool.edu/internationalaffairs/papers/thiam.pdf Unesco manuscript on child work and schooling in Niger]
 
  
 
==External links==
 
==External links==
−
{{sisterlinks|Niger}}
+
All links retrieved November 14, 2022.
−
; Government
+
*[http://www.un.int/niger/ Mission of Niger to the United Nations] official site (in French).  
−
*[http://www.assemblee.ne/ Niger Assemblee Nationale ] official site
+
*[http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/africa/country_profiles/1054396.stm BBC News Country Profile – Niger]  
−
*[http://www.un.int/niger/ Mission of Niger to the United Nations] official site
+
*[http://www.state.gov/p/af/ci/ng/ U.S. Department of State – Niger]
−
 
 
−
; News
 
−
*[http://allafrica.com/niger/ allAfrica - Niger] news headline links
 
−
*[http://nigerportal.com/ Nigerportal - Niger] web portal on Niger in french
 
−
*[http://www.nigerdiaspora.com/ Nigerdiaspora - Niger] network for the Niger diaspora worldwide
 
−
 
 
−
; Overviews
 
−
*[http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/africa/country_profiles/1054396.stm BBC News Country Profile - ''Niger'']
 
−
*[https://www.cia.gov/cia/publications/factbook/geos/ng.html CIA World Factbook - ''Niger'']
 
−
*[http://dmoz.org/Regional/Africa/Niger Open Directory Project - ''Niger''] directory category
 
−
*[http://www.state.gov/p/af/ci/ng/ US State Department - ''Niger''] includes Background Notes, Country Commercial Guides and major reports
 
−
 
 
−
; Tourism
 
−
*{{wikitravel}}
 
−
* [http://www.niger-tourisme.com '''Ministry of Tourism''']. Official website - Includes comprehensive information on Tourism in Niger
 
−
 
 
−
; Other
 
 
* [http://www.friendsofniger.org/ Friends of Niger]
 
* [http://www.friendsofniger.org/ Friends of Niger]
−
* [http://www.izf.net/izf/Documentation/Cartes/Pays/supercartes/niger.htm Map * [http://www.agadez-niger.com Maps of Niger, pictures of Agadez, Tuaregs and handcraft from Niger]
 
−
* [http://www.antislavery.org/homepage/antislavery/award/nigerbackground2004.htm Anti-slavery.org page on slavery in Niger]
 
  
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{{Countries of West Africa}}
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{{OIC}}
 
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{{Member states of the African Union}}
 
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{{Countries of Africa}}
 
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{{La Francophonie}}
 
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{{Chadic-speaking}}
 
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{{Niger-Congo-speaking}}
 
  
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[[Category:Countries]]
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[[Category:Niger| ]]
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[[Category:African Union member states]]
 
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[[Category:Economic Community of West African States]]
 
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[[Category:Landlocked countries]]
 
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Revision as of 09:46, 11 March 2023


Republic of Niger
République du Niger (French)
Jamhuriyar Nijar (Hausa)
Flag of Niger Coat of arms of Niger
Motto: "Fraternité, Travail, Progrès"  (French)
"Fraternity, Work, Progress"
Anthem: La Nigérienne
Location of Niger
Capital
(and largest city) 		Niamey
13°32′N 2°05′E
Official languages French
National languages Hausa, Fulfulde, Gulmancema, Kanuri, Zarma, Tamasheq
Demonym Nigerien (IPA: /naɪdʒɪrɪˈɛn/ or IPA: /niːˈʒɛəriən/[1][2])
Government Semi-presidential republic
 -  President Mahamadou Issoufou
 -  Prime Minister Brigi Rafini
Independence from France 
 -  Declared 3 August 1960 
Area
 -  Total 1,267,000 km² (22nd)
489,678 sq mi 
 -  Water (%) 0.02
Population
 -  July 2009 estimate 15,306,252 [3] (63rd)
 -  2001 census 10,790,352 
 -  Density 12.1/km² 
31.2/sq mi
GDP (PPP) 2010 estimate
 -  Total $11.051 billion[4] 
 -  Per capita $755[4] 
GDP (nominal) 2010 estimate
 -  Total $5.577 billion[4] 
 -  Per capita $381[4] 
Gini (1995) 50.5 (high) 
Currency West African CFA franc (XOF)
Time zone WAT (UTC+1)
 -  Summer (DST) not observed (UTC+1)
Internet TLD .ne
Calling code +227

Niger, officially the Republic of Niger, is a landlocked sub-Saharan country in western Africa, named after the Niger River. Though rich in minerals, the country is two-thirds desert and prone to droughts. Inadequate nutrition and disease result in high infant and child mortality rates. The extreme poverty also allows slavery to persist, despite being prohibited in the 1999 constitution.

History

Niger was an important economic crossroad, and the empires of Songhai, Mali, Gao, Kanem-Bornu, as well as a number of Hausa states, claimed control over portions of the area.

During recent centuries, the nomadic Tuareg formed large confederations, pushed southward, and, siding with various Hausa states, clashed with the Fulani Empire of Sokoto, which had gained control of much of the Hausa territory in the late eighteenth century.

In the nineteenth century, contact with the West began when the first European explorers explored the area, searching for the source of the Niger River. Although French efforts at pacification began before 1900, dissident ethnic groups, especially the desert Tuareg, were not subdued until 1922, when Niger became a French colony.

Gradually, France granted limited local participation in political institutions, then a large measure of self-government. In 1958, Niger became an autonomous state within the French Community, and it reached full independence on August 3, 1960.

For its first 14 years as an independent state, Niger was run by a single-party civilian regime under the presidency of Hamani Diori. In 1974, a combination of devastating drought and accusations of rampant corruption resulted in a military coup. Col. Seyni Kountché and a small military group ruled the country until Kountché's death in 1987. He was succeeded by Col. Ali Saibou, who released political prisoners, liberalized some of Niger's laws and policies, and promulgated a new constitution. He gave in to demands by unions and students to institute a multi-party democratic system in 1990, and new political parties and civic associations sprang up. A transition government was installed in 1991.

Rivalries within a ruling coalition elected in 1993 led to governmental paralysis, which provided Col. Ibrahim Baré Maïnassara a rationale to overthrow the government in 1996. Baré organized a presidential election in 1996 and was declared the winner. When his efforts to justify his coup and subsequent questionable elections failed to convince donors to restore economic assistance, a desperate Baré sought Libyan funds. His regime repeatedly violated basic civil liberties.

In 1999, Baré was killed in a coup led by Maj. Daouda Malam Wanké, who established the transitional National Reconciliation Council to oversee the drafting of a constitution. In votes that international observers found to be generally free and fair, the Nigerien electorate approved the new constitution in July 1999. Legislative and presidential elections were held in October and November 1999. Heading a coalition of the National Movement for a Developing Society (MNSD) and the Democratic and Social Convention (CDS), Mamadou Tandja won the presidency.

In July 2004, Niger held nationwide municipal elections as part of its decentralization process. The ruling MNSD won more positions than any other political party, but opposition parties made significant gains.

In November and December 2004, Niger held presidential and legislative elections. Mamadou Tandja was elected to his second five-year presidential term with 65 percent of the vote in an election that international observers called generally free and fair. This was the first presidential election with a democratically elected incumbent. In the legislative elections, the coalition that backed Tandja won 88 of the 113 seats in the National Assembly.

Listed by the United Nations as one of the poorest nations, it qualified for special United States aid because the government had demonstrated a commitment to reform in 2006.

Politics

Niger's 1999 constitution restored a semi-presidential system of government in which the president, elected by universal suffrage for a five-year term, and a prime minister named by the president share executive power. As a reflection of Niger's increasing population, the unicameral National Assembly was expanded in 2004 to 113 deputies elected for a five-year term under a majority system of representation. Political parties must attain at least 5 percent of the vote to gain a seat in the legislature. The constitution also provides for the popular election of municipal and local officials.

Niger's independent judicial system is composed of four higher courts—the Court of Appeals, the Supreme Court, the High Court of Justice, and the Constitutional Court.

The country is currently divided into eight regions, which are subdivided into 36 districts (departments) and further subdivided into 129 communes. The chief administrator (governor) in each department is appointed and functions as the agent of the central authorities.

Geography

Map of Niger

Niger is a landlocked nation in West Africa located along the border between the Sahara and sub-Saharan regions. It borders Nigeria and Benin to the south, Burkina Faso and Mali to the west, Algeria and Libya to the north, and Chad to the east. Niger is slightly less than twice the size of the U.S. state of Texas, and the world's 22nd largest country (after Chad).

Niger's subtropical climate is mainly very hot and dry, with much desert area. In the extreme south, the climate is tropical on the edges of the Niger River basin. The terrain is predominantly desert plains and sand dunes, with flat to rolling savannah in the south and hills in the north.

Economy

Niamey, Niger's capital and economic hub.

Niger is one of the poorest countries in the world, ranking last on the United Nations Development Programme's Human Development Index. Its economy centers on subsistence crops, livestock, and some of the world's largest uranium deposits. Drought cycles, desertification, a 2.9 percent population growth rate, and a drop in world demand for uranium have undercut the economy.

Niger shares a common currency, the CFA franc, and a common central bank, the Central Bank of West African States (BCEAO), with other members of the West African Monetary Union.

The government embarked on an ambitious program to privatize 12 state-owned companies and is taking actions to reduce corruption. As the result of a participatory process encompassing civil society, Niger has devised a Poverty Reduction Strategy Plan that focuses on improving health, primary education, rural infrastructure, agricultural production, environmental protection, and judicial reform.

In 2000, Niger qualified for enhanced debt relief, which significantly reduces Niger's annual debt service obligations, freeing funds for expenditures on basic health care, primary education, HIV/AIDS prevention, rural infrastructure, and other programs geared at poverty reduction. Nearly half the government's budget is derived from foreign donor resources. In 2006, it qualified for the U.S. aid program under the Millennium Challenge Corporation, which will support efforts to fight corruption and increase girls' access to primary education. Ties with China have also grown. Future growth may be sustained by exploitation of oil, gold, coal, and other mineral resources. Uranium prices have recovered somewhat in the last few years.

Slavery

Slavery has existed since pre-colonial times. The French tried to eliminate the slave markets, but the system persisted, even after being banned in the 1999 constitution. Primarily the slaves herd cattle or do agricultural or domestic work. They are not permitted to vote, and their children are born into slavery. An estimated 43,000 people were slaves in 2003, when the government added stronger sentences to the penal code, hoping to end the practice.

Agriculture

The fertile south of Niger near the river delta.

Niger's agricultural and livestock sectors are the mainstay of 82 percent of the population. Fourteen percent of Niger's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is generated by livestock production—camels, goats, sheep, and cattle—said to support 29 percent of the population. The 15 percent of Niger's land that is arable is found mainly along its southern borders with Nigeria, Benin, and Burkina Faso. Rainfall varies and, when insufficient, Niger has difficulty feeding its population and must rely on grain purchases and food aid to meet food requirements.

Exports

Of Niger's exports, foreign exchange earnings from livestock are second only to those from uranium. Niger's two uranium mines are owned by a French-led consortium and operated by French interests. When the uranium-led boom ended in the early 1980s, the economy stagnated, and new investment since then has been limited.

Exploitable deposits of gold are known to exist in the region between the Niger River and the border with Burkina Faso. Commercial gold production began in 2004. Substantial deposits of phosphates, coal, iron, limestone, and gypsum also have been found. Oil exploration is ongoing.

In recent years, the government drafted revisions to the investment, petroleum, and mining codes, offering attractive terms for investors. The present government actively seeks foreign private investment, considering it key to restoring economic growth and development.

Foreign relations

Niger pursues a moderate foreign policy and maintains friendly relations with the West and the Islamic world as well as nonaligned countries. It belongs to the United Nations and its main specialized agencies. Niger maintains a special relationship with France and enjoys close relations with its West African neighbors.

The border dispute with Benin, inherited from colonial times, was finally solved in 2005 to Niger's advantage.

Demographics

File:Niger-bevoelkerungspyramide.png
Population age of Niger.

The largest ethnic groups in Niger are the Hausa, who also constitute the major ethnic group in northern Nigeria, and the Djerma-Songhai, who also are found in parts of Mali. Both groups, along with the Gourmantche, are sedentary farmers who live in the arable, southern tier of the country. The remainder of Nigeriens are nomadic or semi-nomadic livestock-raising peoples. With rapidly growing populations and the consequent competition for meager natural resources, lifestyles of agriculturalists and livestock herders have come increasingly into conflict. Life expectancy is 46 years.

Niger's high infant mortality rate is comparable to levels recorded in neighboring countries. The child mortality rate (deaths among children between the ages of one and four) is exceptionally high due to generally poor health conditions and inadequate nutrition for most of the country's children.

Niger has the highest fertility rate in the world, which means that nearly half (49 percent) of the population is under age fifteen. Between 1996 and 2003, primary school attendance was around 30 percent,[5] including 36 percent of males and only 25 percent of females. Additional education occurs through madrassas. French is the official language. The overall literacy rate is 15 percent.

Muslims make up 95 percent of the population. The remainder is traditional and Christian.

File:Niamey Mosque.jpg
A mosque in Niamey.

Media

Niger started to develop diverse media in the late 1990s. Niamey boasts scores of newspapers and magazines, many of which are fiercely critical of the government. Radio is the most important medium, as television sets are beyond the buying power of many of the rural poor and illiteracy prevents the print media from becoming a mass medium. In addition to the state broadcaster, there are four privately owned radio networks, which total more than a hundred stations and are estimated to cover about 70 percent of the population.

Despite relative freedom at the national level, Nigerien journalists say they are often pressured by local authorities. The state network depends financially on the government.

Notes

  1. ↑ Merriam-Webster Dictionary Retrieved November 19, 2011.
  2. ↑ Oxford Dictionaries Retrieved November 19, 2011.
  3. ↑ Error on call to template:cite web: Parameters url and title must be specifiedCentral Intelligence Agency (2009). . The World Factbook.
  4. ↑ 4.0 4.1 4.2 4.3 Error on call to template:cite web: Parameters url and title must be specified. International Monetary Fund.
  5. ↑ UNICEF, At a Glance: Niger Statistics.

References
ISBN links support NWE through referral fees

  • Anti-Slavery International. Slavery in Niger. Retrieved June 19, 2007.
  • Central Intelligence Agency. Niger. The World Factbook. Retrieved June 19, 2007.
  • Cutter, Charles H. Africa 2006. Harpers Ferry, WV: Stryker-Post Publications, 2006. ISBN 1887985727
  • Decalo, Samuel. Historical Dictionary of Niger, 3rd ed. Scarecrow Press, 1997. ISBN 0810831368
  • Gailey, Harry A., Jr. History of Africa: From Earliest Times to 1800. Malabar, FL: Krieger Publishing Company, 1999. ISBN 1575241188
  • UNICEF, At a Glance: Niger. Retrieved June 19, 2007.
  • U.S. Department of State. Background Note: Niger. Retrieved June 19, 2007.

External links

All links retrieved November 14, 2022.

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